LEEDS RHINOS have signed North Queensland Cowboys prop Matt Lodge for the remainder of this season.
The front-rower will bolster Brad Arthur’s squad as Leeds enter the final stages of the Super League campaign, with a play-off place already assured and their sights now set on clinching the League Leaders’ Shield and then reaching a first Grand Final in nine years.
Lodge, 31, has played 148 times in the NRL including 15 appearances this season for the Cowboys. The forward has also represented Wests Tigers, Brisbane Broncos, New Zealand Warriors, Sydney Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles.
“I’m really excited about coming over,” said Sydney-born Lodge, who won’t be available for Thursday’s home clash with Leigh Leopards but will join his team-mates afterwards, subject to visa approval.
“I have been watching the team play. They are doing a great job and I am very grateful for the opportunity.
“I can’t wait to rip in and do whatever the team needs from me. I’ve known of Leeds Rhinos all my life and can remember watching some of their champion teams as a kid.
“It’s a proud club and I’m pumped that I get to experience what it’s all about. I can’t wait to get out there and go hard.
“When Brad (Arthur, head coach) offered me the opportunity I jumped at the chance.”
Leeds’ sporting director Ian Blease added: “We are really pleased to have been able to bring Matt into the group for the remainder of the season.
“We have a very competitive squad but, as we head into the most important part of the campaign, we wanted to add some experience and further depth to our forward pack.
“Matt is a big, physical player who has played at the highest level and understands what is required when the pressure is on. He will give Brad another option in the middle and we believe he can make a real impact over the coming weeks.”